Originally Posted by
transparent
I think it's quite rude to keep the shade open when it's supposed to be a "sleeping" flight or long enough when people do want to sleep...
There is often nothing to see. If you want to look go to the galley where there is often a window on the exit door. ... You may control the window shade but you also control your level of courtesy and consideration to others.
I think it is rude to presume that claustrophobia can just be dismissed, and that there is "nothing to see out there."
I select window seats because being able to see out makes a huge difference in my comfort/anxiety level when flying. I am not an inconsiderate oaf, however. If I notice that a pax near me is trying to use their laptop or IFE and glare is an issue, I'll do 1/2 shade, position myself to try and block as much light as possible, etc.
And on eastbound TATLs, especially in summer, I get that sunrise is much too early and just take a pill, close the blind, and try and chill/sleep. But that isn't practical on short flights - medications often have an 8 hour impact and suggest not driving, which is not an option if I have a 2hr hop to DEN and am getting a rental car.
So in the vein of "courtesy and consideration to others" I hope those of you who expect shade-down compliance will be mindful that flying in a small metal tube with no view out can be very uncomfortable/anxiety inducing for some pax.